The all-new 2019 VW Jetta has a bolder, sophisticated, yet sporty look and offers a fun drive with its turbocharged engine, exclusive design elements, and advanced technologies. Here are two reasons why the 2019 Jetta is more fun to drive than before. Engine and Performance Expect great performance when you drive the punchy, yet economical turbocharged engine. The turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque proves to be a perfect blend of power and efficiency. It also offers drivers mode selection, allowing you to adjust the dynamics according to your driving needs. With features such as lane and front assist and blind-spot monitor, you can enjoy a confident and safe ride. For regular driving, the 2019 Jetta offers plenty of pep. Besides the base model, which comes with a six-speed manual transmission, all other trims come standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The automatic gearbox performs smoothly with no hesitation. Interior The well-crafted interior makes driving a pleasure, with features such as heated and ventilated front seats. What's a good drive without a good sound system, and the conveniences of modern technology at your fingertips? When it comes to the infotainment system, the 2019 Jetta got a thorough overhaul. Standard on all trims is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The personalized driver display adds convenience to your ride. Consider upgrading to the available 8-inch touch screen which certainly ups Jetta's tech game. The 2019 Jetta has so much to offer. Book your test drive today. Image via Flickr by Ivan Radic
2 Reasons Growing Families Love the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas
The 2019 Volkswagen Atlas is an excellent option for growing families because it has ample room for your family and all your cargo. When looking for a family vehicle, the Atlas should be a strong contender. Spacious Seating The interior of the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas seats your family and friends comfortably with two seating options. Choose the three-person second-row bench to seat up to eight people or the captain's chairs for seating up to seven people. Taller passengers will appreciate the headroom and legroom and families will appreciate that the second row has enough room for three child seats. The bench seats feature 60/40-split and slide to allow easier access to the back row or luggage. Cargo Space When heading out on a road trip or taking the kids to soccer practice, you'll have enough room for all your luggage or gear in the cargo area. With the seats in their upright position, you'll get 20.6 cubic-feet of space. Fold the second- and third-row seats down and you'll get up to 96.8 cubic-feet of cargo space. When your arms are full, the available hands-free easy-open liftgate makes it easy to load and unload. Simply keep the key in your pocket or handbag and slide your foot under the rear bumper. Also available is the remote power liftgate option that allows you to open the hatch before you reach it. With more than one seating option available and a cargo area that can handle your luggage just as easily as your groceries, the 2019 Atlas is a great SUV for families.
2 Reasons the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan is the Practical Choice
The 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan is a strong competitor in the mid-size SUV market, thanks to a roomy interior and plenty of cargo space. Here are two reasons the 2019 Tiguan is a practical choice for your next ride. Spacious Interior The cabin of the 2019 Tiguan has plenty of room, so passengers have a comfortable ride. The vehicle fits five people and tall riders will appreciate the ample legroom and headroom. All four doors feature large pockets with bottle holders and there are two cup holders in the front and to in the back so everyone can stay hydrated on the drive. You'll also find map pockets and extra space for your phone and wallet near the gear shifter. An available panoramic sunroof gives the feeling of an even larger interior. Cargo Space When traveling or heading to games, the 2019 Tiguan has enough room for all of your luggage or sporting equipment. With the seats in their upright position, you'll have almost 22 cubic feet of space. Folding down the back seat is made simple with the release lever and provides you with even more room, for a total of 73.5 cubic feet. For easy loading and unloading, opt for the available hands-free Easy Open and Easy Close liftgate. With this functionality, all you need to do is touch kick your foot under the rear bumper and the liftgate unlocks and opens for you. Once everything is loaded up, the liftgate will close as you walk away from it. Image via Flickr by RL GNZLZ
2 Houston Cocktail Bars for Your Next Night Out
Houston, Texas, has a cocktail bar scene that features unique settings with even more unique drinks. For something refreshing and fun, check out these Houston cocktail bars for your next night out. Better Luck Tomorrow Known for innovative drinks, Better Luck Tomorrow has gained national recognition and has become a top neighborhood bar. Eclectic and colorful décor create a welcoming atmosphere where you can sip on handcrafted libations. When the weather is beating you down, take advantage of one of their Houston Weather Specials. When it's hotter than 95 degrees, you'll get highballs at half-off; when it's raining, you'll receive half off of Hurricanes; and when the temperature drops below 40, hot toddies are half price. Better Luck Tomorrow is located at 544 Yale Street and is open daily from 3:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. Kanaloa Enjoy an evening of tropical delights at Kanaloa. This cocktail bar serves traditional tiki beverages in single-serve sizes, as well as large shareables that you can share with friends. The Undiscovered Paradise is served in a conch shell, while the Treasure Chest is served in a treasure chest and serves up to 12 people. Bring your friends on Thursdays and you'll get 25 percent off of all shareable cocktails. Kanaloa Tiki Bar is located at 311 Travis Street and is open Tuesday and Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m., Thursday through Saturday from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., and Sunday from 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. It's time to sip on something exciting at one of these great cocktail bars in Houston. Image via Flickr by Sam Howzit
2 Funniest Comedy Clubs in Houston
One of the best ways to end the workweek is with a good laugh and Houston, Texas, is home to venues that feature some of the funniest comedians around. Houston Improv Comedy Club The Houston Improv Comedy Club has an ever-changing lineup of top improv comedians that are sure to tickle your funny bone. The venue has a casual and intimate setting, putting you front and center of the show. While enjoying the acts, grab a drink and dine on American style cuisine. Houston Improv Comedy Club is located at 7620 Katy Freeway #455. The box office is open Sunday from 12 to 8 p.m., Monday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The Music Box Theater The Music Box Theater has been putting on humorous sketch comedy and musical acts since 2011 and is the recipient of numerous awards. The five-member troupe and live band perform “music and comedy outside the box” with variety shows that change throughout the seasons. General and reserved seating admissions are available. The Music Box Theater is located at 2623 Colquitt. The box office is open Sunday on shows days from 12 to 2 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Enjoy a good laugh at some of the funniest comedy clubs in Houston. Image via Flickr by Shaun Landry (Landry & Summers Productions)
2 Best Authentic Restaurants in Asiatown
When you're craving authentic Asian cuisine in Houston, Texas, head to one of these authentic restaurants in Asiatown. Crown Seafood For authentic Cantonese dishes such as Peking duck and steamed fish, head to Crown Seafood, a banquet-style Chinese restaurant that spans 11,000 square feet and is filled with hundreds of delicious dishes. For fresh seafood, make your way to the back of the restaurant and select your geoduck, lobster, or other live seafood from one of the tanks and have it cooked into something tasty. Dim sum is served daily until 3 p.m. and includes such small dishes as shrimp-wrapped crab claws, har grow, and shu mai dumplings. Lunch specials are offered from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. If you're craving authentic Asian cuisine but you don't feel like getting out, stay in your jammies and order delivery. Crown Seafood is located at 10796 Bellaire Blvd and is open Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Thien Thanh You'll feel as though you're sitting amidst a forest of bamboo while dining on authentic Thai dishes at Thien Thanh. The restaurant is known for making some of the best banh cuon and is popular with local families who often gather on the weekends for a brunch of banh cuon nhan thit, bun rieu, banh out thit nuong, and cha ca. Thien Thanh is located at 11210 Bellair Blvd and is open Wednesday through Monday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Image via Flickr by sashafatcat
2 Weirdest Houston Museums
While arts and music museums are always found in big cities, one thing Houston, Texas, has going for it is the abundance of weird museums. National Museum of Funeral History Learn about the history of the funeral services industry at the National Museum of Funeral History. Founded in 1992, the museum aims to preserve the heritage of death care and educate the public. The museum features exhibits ranging from Egypt's ancient embalming rituals to Japanese funerals to a tribute to the fallen heroes of 9/11. Take a walk through the halls to see their collection of vintage hearses and presidential funeral artifacts. The National Museum of Funeral History is located at 415 Barren Springs Drive and is open Sunday from noon to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Beer Can House The Beer Can House is a museum dedicated to recycling. Ripley's Believe It or Not estimates the monument to include more than 50,000 cans. In 1968, John Milkovisch began laying down thousands of rocks, marbles, and metal into concrete and redwood because he was tired of cutting his grass. Once his lawn was covered, be began creating aluminum beer can siding on his house as well as garlands made from cut beer cans. You can now tour this weird museum and monument to recycling. The Beer Can House is located at 222 Malone St. and is open Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Spend the day marveling at the oddities found at the many weird museums in Houston. Image via Flickr by ArturoYee
2 Reasons to Rediscover the Beetle
The Volkswagen Beetle is a retro icon that has captured the hearts of many since it was first introduced more than 60 years ago. This classic car has been reinvented and is full of technology and amenities that up its game. Here are some great reasons why you should rediscover the Volkswagen Beetle. It's Full of Technology The 2019 VW Beetle has plenty of technology to keep you connected. App-Connect allows you to plug in your smartphone or smart watch and access your apps on the touchscreen. With Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth compatibility, you can stream your favorite playlists. The 400-watt Fender premium audio system ensures you have crystal-clear sound. The Sunroof rain notification alerts you via smartphone if rain is in the forecast and reminds you to close the sunroof. The available VW Car-Net Security & Service helps you find your car if you've forgotten where you parked it and lets you lock the doors via your smartphone. There are Safety Features Galore Although a retro-style car, the new Beetle comes loaded with high-tech safety features to ensure you get to your destination safely. Standard and available safety equipment includes blind spot monitor, a rear view camera system, automatic post-collision braking system, intelligent crash response system, tire pressure monitoring system, and seven stability-enhancing systems. A rigid safety cage features front and rear crumple zones that help absorb energy in case of a crash and deflect it away from you and your passengers. Whether you're nostalgic or not, the VW Beetle is a car that punches above its weight and should not be missed. Image via Flickr by b0922307387
2 Reasons You'll Love Driving the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan
The 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan is a high-end midsize SUV that includes features and a price tag that makes it quite the competitor in this market. With a luxurious cabin and plenty of entertainment options, there's no doubt you'll love driving the 2019 Tiguan. Comfortable Cabin Th 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan has a spacious cabin, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable ride while driving down the road. There's enough room for five adults, so you can load up the kids or carpool to work with colleagues. The seats are adjustable, so you can find that sweet spot. There's plenty of leg room, even in the back seat, so all passengers can fit with ease. Taller passengers will appreciate the amount of headroom. With the seats up, you'll have up to 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space and with the rear seats folded down you'll get up to 73.5 cubic feet of space. The rear seat also slides forward and back, giving you the extra bit of space for either legroom or extra cargo. Multimedia Options The 2019 VW Tiguan comes standard with an 8-inch touch screen that includes navigation. The Tiguan is Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible, so you can connect your smartphone and listen to music or podcasts while cruising through town. Three USB ports make it easy to charge your devices while on the move, and Bluetooth connectivity allows to stay connected. Bring your CDs and listen to them through the eight speakers. Sit inside the 2019 Tiguan and you'll discover even more reasons you'll love driving it. Image via Flickr by RL GNZLZ
2 Reasons Music Sounds Better in the 2019 Volkswagon Jetta SEL
With a sound system powered by BeatsAudio, music-lovers will go nuts for the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta SEL. Tuned by musicians to deliver the best sound possible, the new Jetta SEL makes it easy to be your own DJ while cruising down the road. You Can Pump Up the Volume Feel the bass while driving down the road with the BeatsAudio sound system, which includes a 12-channel, 400-watt amplifier, and digital signal processing. Nine speakers pump out the beats, including two 1-inch high fidelity tweeters in A-pillars, two 1-inch high fidelity tweeters in the rear doors, two 6.5-inch woofers in the front doors, two 6.5-inch broadband band loudspeakers in the rear doors, and one 6.5-inch dual-coil subwoofer in the spare wheel well. You Have Plenty of Music Choices An infotainment system with an 8-inch color touch screen comes standard with Volkswagens' Car-Net App-Connect, which allows you to access your favorite playlists from your smartphone. Also included is CarPlay and Android Auto, so all of your jams are right at your fingertips. If you prefer satellite radio, the SEL comes with a three-month trial of SiriusXM All Access. You'll also get a CD player, AM, FM, and HD radio, and am MP3 player. Additionally, the display has a proximity sensor that detects when you're about to touch it and automatically brings up the controls, allowing you a quicker way to the music. If you're driving, use the voice control instead. If music is your thing, you won't want to miss the 2019 Jetta SEL. Image via Flickr by Fungi-(Trading)
2 Best Houston Restaurants for Viet-Cajun Crawfish
Viet-Cajun crawfish has become a unique expression of Houston, Texas', culinary identity. Here are some of the best restaurants in Houston to feast on Viet-Cajun crawfish. Wild Cajun At Wild Cajun, owner Lee Ngo worked hard perfecting the flavors of what is now his top seller – wild Cajun crawfish. The dish consists of crawfish that have been boiled in Cajun spices, then tossed in a garlic, spice-infused butter. You can also dine on crawfish egg rolls, crawfish etouffee, and crawfish fried rice. Wild Cajun has two locations: 6533 Wilcrest Drive, #104 and 13602 Belaire Blvd A1. The Willcrest location is open Sunday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Thursday from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday from 2 to 11 p.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. The Bellaire location is open Sunday from noon to 10 p.m., Monday through Thursday from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday from 3 p.m. to midnight, and Saturday from noon to midnight. Cajun Kitchen Cajun Kitchen focuses on the Viet-Cajun seafood boil culture and is recognized as one of Houston's top restaurants. Dig into crawfish that have been cooked in a wok before being boiled in a delicious Cajun seasoning. The Kitchen Special includes crawfish that are tossed in garlic, green onions, orange, lemons, and butter. Cajun Kitchen is located at 6938 Wilcrest Drive and is open Monday through Friday from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 10 p.m. Head to one of these great restaurants to enjoy this unique fusion of Vietnamese and Cajun food. Image via Flickr by T.Tseng
Art in Houston Parks
If you're a fan of public artwork, there's almost no better place to live than Houston. Many of the city's parks feature art installations that will impress even those with the most critical eye. Here are just a few of the many spots in Houston that you can visit to see eye-catching public art from some of the area's leading sculptors and painters. Smither Park In Houston, there are a variety of parks that feature gorgeous artwork, including Smither Park in the bustling downtown area. The park was designed to be a haven for local artists, and it features a variety of glittering mosaics that you can spend an entire day browsing. One of the most noteworthy mosaics is called the "All-White Wall," and it is was made using hundreds of pieces of old china. You should also be sure to check out the "Skeleton Gentleman," a colorful mosaic statue designed to resemble a carnival statue. Menagerie Park Menagerie Park is another excellent park to visit in Houston if you're in the mood for an unforgettable cultural experience. The park is located in the heart of a 108-acre pipe yard and features massive metal statues welded by an area artist. Most of the park's sculptures are steel creatures that provide a colorful take on their real-life counterparts, including a massive red-hued armadillo that sits atop a rolling green hill. If you're an art lover who lives in Houston, you should be sure to visit one of these excellent public parks. At both locations, you'll find stunning, unforgettable works. Image via Flickr by TexasExplorer98